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Homemade Karelian Pies recipe photo

Karelian Pies

Karelian pies are a Finnish delight! Enjoy these hand-held pastries filled with creamy rice porridge and a touch of egg butter.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Finnish
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling:
  • 4/5 cup short-grain rice (Arborio or Calrose)
  • 4/5 cup water
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Dough:
  • 4/5 cup water (for dough)
  • 1 ¼ cup rye flour
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for dough)
For the Egg Butter:
  • ¼ cup softened butter (for egg butter)
  • Salt to taste (for egg butter)

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling Pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Pastry brush
  • Knife or egg slicer

Method
 

How to Prepare Karelian Pies
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Rice Filling
    In a medium saucepan, combine the short-grain rice and 4/5 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook until the rice absorbs the water, around 10-15 minutes. Stir in the whole milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook on low, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes. Once done, set the filling aside to cool.
  2. Step 2: Make the Rye Dough
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the rye flour, all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add 4/5 cup of water and mix until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes elastic. Divide the dough into small balls, roughly the size of golf balls, and cover them with a cloth to prevent drying out.
  3. Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
    On a floured surface, take one ball of dough and roll it out into a thin oval shape, about 1/8 inch thick. Aim for a rustic look; uneven edges add to the charm of Karelian pies!
  4. Step 4: Fill the Dough
    Place a generous tablespoon of the rice filling in the center of the rolled-out dough. Fold the edges over the filling, creating a boat-like shape, and pinch to seal. Don’t worry if they look a little rustic; that’s part of their charm!
  5. Step 5: Bake the Pies
    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the filled pies on the baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  6. Step 6: Prepare the Egg Butter
    While the pies are baking, chop the hard-boiled eggs and mix them with softened butter in a bowl. Add salt to taste. This egg butter is the perfect accompaniment for your Karelian pies.
  7. Step 7: Enjoy!
    Once the Karelian pies are out of the oven, brush them with melted butter while they are still warm. Serve them hot with your delicious egg butter spread on top. Enjoy your homemade Karelian pies with family and friends!

Notes

  • For a healthier option, substitute brown rice for short-grain rice.
  • Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk to reduce calories.
  • Freezing baked pies is a great way to store them for future enjoyment.